igus:bike

Stage 1: From our roots to the windmills of Kinderdijk

Maria Siopi | 4. September 2025

The igus:bike tour has officially begun, and what better place to start than where it all began: Soesterberg, the birthplace of igus Nederland. This first stage, fittingly called “From our roots to the windmills of Kinderdijk,” takes us back to our origins before leading us to one of the most iconic Dutch landmarks.

Back to where it all began

Our journey started in Soesterberg, a small town in the heart of the Netherlands. For igus Nederland, Soesterberg is more than just a dot on the map—it’s the place where the adventure began in 1989. This is where Dick Prins, the founder of igus Nederland, laid the foundation for what would grow into a strong and innovative company that is part of a global network.

To honor this history, we had the chance to sit down with Dick Prins himself. Listening to his stories was like stepping back in time: tales of passion, perseverance, and a belief in solutions that make movement simpler. His entrepreneurial spirit is still very much alive and continues to inspire the igus team today.Joining us on this first stage were riders Mark van de Waal and Justine Burcham, whose enthusiasm and energy set the perfect tone for the tour. Mark shared, “Riding through Soesterberg, seeing where igus started — it’s incredible to feel the history beneath our wheels.

It really makes you appreciate the journey the company has been on.” Justine added, “Every corner of the old office has a story, and it’s amazing to pedal through it knowing we’re tracing those roots.”

On to Kinderdijk – A UNESCO world heritage site

After revisiting our roots, we set off toward a destination that symbolizes the Netherlands like few others: the windmills of Kinderdijk. Located in the province of South Holland, this area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s most photographed landscapes.

Kinderdijk is home to 19 historic windmills, built around 1740. Their purpose was far more practical: they were part of an ingenious water management system designed to keep the low-lying land dry. Without these mills, much of the surrounding region would have been flooded.

More than just beautiful scenery

Today, the Kinderdijk windmills are visited by people from all over the world, and for good reason. They are not only a symbol of Dutch ingenuity in water management, but also a reminder of how communities have worked with, rather than against, nature for centuries.

Cycling through this landscape with Mark and Justine, it felt like riding straight into a Dutch painting, with the mills standing tall against the sky, surrounded by canals, reeds, and wide-open polders.

Justine reflected, “It’s breathtaking. You feel the weight of history but also the harmony between humans and nature.” Mark added, “Every turn reveals a new view, a new story. Cycling here isn’t just exercise—it’s an experience.”

Stage 1 complete!

Stage 1 of the igus bike tour is complete. From the entrepreneurial roots in Soesterberg to the timeless windmills of Kinderdijk. Tomorrow we will continue to our 2 customer visits WUR and Marin. See you soon!

Our riders:

Justine Burcham

In my role as a Marketing Assistant, I work on a variety of projects. The opportunity to contribute new ideas and apply creativity makes this position even more exciting. One of the highlights is supporting the igus:bike tour – a unique initiative that showcases our commitment to sustainability and innovation. This experience, among others, allows me to contribute to the growth of igus.

Mark van de Waal

I joined igus on November 1, 2010, and have now been working at this innovative company for almost 15 years with great pleasure. During that time, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of positions – from inside sales and product management to online marketing, and now as marketing manager.

What makes working at igus so special? Every day is different! Thanks to the enormous drive for innovation, the work always remains challenging and inspiring. A good example of this is the igus:bike tour, where innovation and sustainability literally come together.